Airport lounges explained… everything you need to know about experiencing luxury for less

Taking a trip from one of the UK’s busy airports? Ease the pain of negotiating the terminal by booking space in an airport lounge. Read our guide here…

It’s not just the big four airports where you can take your seat in a luxurious lounge; we’ve added a whole host of venues in terminals across the UK. Here’s all you need to know about the world of airport lounges…

First things first – what exactly is an airport lounge?

It’s your friend with benefits… airport lounges – such as The Yorkshire Premier Lounge at Leeds Bradford Airport – offer much more than just peace and quiet and a comfy seat

These are private areas in airport terminals where passengers can escape the main departure lounge and wait for their flight in more comfortable and far less stressful surroundings. Food, drink, Wi-Fi and many other facilities are available, too – but more about that later…

Aren’t airport lounges for premium class travellers, only?

Some large airlines have their own private lounges, but these are separate to the public facilities offered at many airports. The public lounges are open to all passengers regardless of airline or cabin class – but they will have to pay to get in, of course.

Airport lounges are expensive, right?

Prices vary across airports, but entry to a lounge can cost anything from around £15 – £35. However, your entry fee will bring a lot more than just peace and quiet with a comfy seat. Read on to find out how that entry fee can actually save you money during your time in the terminal.

So, what do I get for my money?

Free food and drink… plus plenty of other perks coming your way

Aside from providing a welcome haven of calm away from the stresses of a bustling terminal, grabbing your ticket to lounge will also provide plenty of additional benefits you might not be aware of. Here are just a few of the perks you can expect in most airport lounges…

Free food: That’s right, from snacks to breakfast, lunch and dinner you can expect a menu of complimentary hot and cold food to help you fuel-up for your flight.

Free drinks: Relax ahead of your flight with a beer, glass of wine or spirits – lounge customers will be greeted by complimentary drinks from a well stocked bar. Free coffee, tea and fruit juices will also be provided. If you’re toasting a special occasion, Champagne is likely to be on offer for an additional cost.

Free Wi-Fi: Catching up on a few last-minute work emails or posting a boasting photo to your social media accounts… swerve the airport’s painfully slow public network with the free super-fast connection in the lounge.

And that’s not all: Along with the free food, drink and Wi-Fi, you can also expect TVs, flight information screens and daily newspapers and magazines to help while away time. Some lounges, will even offer the likes of bedrooms, spa treatments and showers – see the No1 Lounge at Heathrow’s Terminal 3, for example.

Where can I find a list of airport lounges – and get a quote?

Right here, funnily enough… check out our list below for more details and booking information.

Luxurious… join the jet-set in lounges such as the SkyTeam venue at Heathrow’s Terminal 4

Heathrow Terminal 3 No.1 Lounge: Click here for full details

No.1 Lounge Heathrow Terminal 3

If it’s a VIP send-off you’re looking for, the No.1 Lounge Heathrow Terminal 3 will tick the boxes. Offering an unrivalled range of services, from spa treatments to pod bedrooms, there really isn’t a more luxurious launch pad to start your trip.

Why book: Reserve your place in this award-winning lounge right now and you’ll save £4 on the price of entry on the day. Simply get your quote now to save your space in this haven of peace and calm.

What’s on offer: Choose a complimentary dish from the exclusive No1 Lounge menu of individual, made-to-order hot dishes. You’ll also be offered a choice of draught beers, wines, soft drinks, juices and hot beverages to wash it down.

Located over two floors, the truly luxurious SkyTeam Lounge, Heathrow Terminal 4 is an exceptional facility and the ideal location to escape the crowds at one of the UK’s busiest airport terminals.

Why book: Away from the hustle and bustle of airport life, you can sit back and enjoy the salubrious surroundings with your choice of complimentary hot or cold snacks from the kitchen – all washed down by a selection of 12 wines – including English fizz – bottled beers and premium spirits.

What’s on offer: If the prospect of battling your way through one of the UK’s busiest terminals fails to excite, you can book your space in the SkyTeam Lounge and enjoy the peace and quiet up to three hours prior to boarding your flight.

Lounge features: Here’s what else is included for guest booking a space in the SkyTeam Lounge at Heathrow’s Terminal 4…

Dress code: Guests are expected to conform to a smart but casual dress code. This precludes showing too much skin, clothing with slogans and sportswear. Failure to comply could result in entry being refused.

Directions: Once in the main departure lounge follow signs for Gate 10, which is opposite the lounge entrance.

Important information: Please take note of the following…
Children under 2 gain free entry to the lounge.

Why book: Make your reservation online now and save up to £7 per person, when compared with bookings on the day – and don’t forget, you can ‘check in’ to the lounge up to three hours before your flight.

What’s on offer: Reserve your place in the No.1 Lounge and enjoy these benefits…
Complimentary made-to-order dish from the kitchen and goodies from the self-service pantry table
Choice of complimentary award-winning wines, speciality beers and premium spirits
Hot and cold beverages, including bean-to-cup coffee, speciality teas and soft drinks

Lounge features: Alongside the complimentary food and drink, there’s plenty more to keep guests occupied as they wait to depart…

Free, unlimited access to Wi-Fi
Unrivalled views of the runway
Televisions
Daily UK and international newspapers and magazines
Champagne & Prosecco (will be charged as an extra)

Opening hours: 4am – 10pm

Dress code: When it comes to dress code, smart casual is the rule – the folks at No1 kindly ask you don’t wear shirts with offensive slogans, fancy dress outfit or show too much skin…

Directions: Once through security, follow signs for No1 Lounges – the entrance is via the corridor between Dixons and JD Sports.

Important information: Please take note of the following…
The No.1 Traveller Lounge welcomes children who are accompanied by an adult.

Please be sure to make your booking for the right terminal as you’ll be unable to transfer between the two terminals once you have checked in.

Head to the No.1 Lounge and enjoy a haven of calm and relaxation as you wait to board. Here’s what’s on offer in the lounge that’s open to all passengers…

Why book: Add some VIP sparkle to your airport experience – and guarantee a luxurious, stress-free start to your trip. Book online now and save up to £7 per person, when compared with pay-on-the-door prices. You can ‘check in’ to the lounge up to three hours before you fly.

Lounge features: Along with complimentary food and drink, guests can take advantage of the following amenities…
Quiet, child-free library seating area
Free, unlimited Wi-Fi
Complimentary daily newspapers
Panoramic views over the runway

Opening hours: 4am – 10pm

Dress code: When it comes to dress code, smart casual is the rule – the folks at No1 kindly ask you don’t wear shirts with offensive slogans, fancy dress outfit or show too much skin…

Directions: The lounge is located after security. On entry to the main departure lounge, follow signs for Airport Lounges.

Important information: Please take note of the following…
The No.1 Traveller Lounge welcomes accompanied children.

Please be sure to make your booking for the right terminal as you’ll be unable to transfer between the two terminals once you have checked in.

Billed as the relaxed little brother to the No.1 lounges, My Lounge brings pre-flight lounging for all in a relaxed, informal atmosphere. The large, airy loft-inspired space is especially suited to those with kids – whatever their ages.

Why book: Make your My Lounge reservation online now and save up to £4 per person, when compared with bookings on the day. You’ll be able to make the most of your visit, too, with entry from three hours prior to your departure time.

What’s on offer: Take your place in the lounge and while away the time by grazing on complimentary snacks and refreshing drinks. Pour yourself a draft beer, glass of wine, or choose from a selection of soft drinks, juices, speciality teas and coffee, cider and spirits & mixers.

Lounge features: It’s not just the prospect of delicious complimentary food and drink to entice you in! Here’s what else is on hand to keep you and your party occupied while you wait to board…

Free, unlimited access to Wi-Fi
Individual or group seating areas
Free nibbles, bites and drinks from the kitchen counter
Family Snug with TV
Games Den with TV, PlayStation and table football
Daily newspapers and magazines
Plenty of sockets for charging your devices
Computer workstations

Opening hours: 6am – 8pm

Dress code: My Lounge is all about relaxed lounging, but this stops short at vests, exposed midriffs, onesies, clothing with offensive slogans or any other ‘dodgy fashion choices’ that may arise. ‘Cool and casual’ is the order of the day, according to the folks from My Lounge

Directions: My Lounge is located in departures after security. It’s available to anyone flying from the North Terminal.

Important information: Please take note of the following…
My Lounge child concession is available to those aged 12 or under – after this they’ll pay the full adult access fee.

Manchester Airport Terminal 1 Escape Lounge
Escape the stress of airport life and relax in a haven of calm as you prepare to fly. Whether travelling on business or pleasure, get your trip off to the perfect start by booking a seat in the Manchester T1 Escape Lounge.

Why book: Open from 4.30am to 8.30pm, it’s the perfect solution for travellers looking to start their journey in a calm and relaxed environment. Side-step the crowds, enjoy the facilities and bring a touch of jet-set luxury to your trip at seriously down to earth prices. Booking online will also save cash compared with entry on the day of travel.

What’s on offer: From a complimentary continental breakfast to a brunch of freshly baked pies, pastries, salads, handmade sandwiches and sweet treats, there’s a wide selection of food on offer throughout the day. Guests can also sample beers, wines and spirits from the free bar, or relax with a selection of teas, coffees and fresh fruit juices.

Lounge features: It’s not just the prospect of a relaxed space and mouth-watering menu and drinks to attract – guests will also benefit from the following facilities…

Dress code: The Lounge dress code is smart/casual. Men’s shoulders must be covered at all times. Shorts must be tailored and of reasonable length. Sports attire is not accepted – football and rugby shirts must be covered. Matching clothing (such as for hen or stag parties), fancy dress, onesies, pyjamas, personalised items or any other items that may cause offence to other users are not permitted.

Directions: Finding the Escape Lounge is easy! Head through security and the Duty Free area, before following signs for ‘Premium Lounges’ along the walkway just before Dixons.

Important information: Please take note of the following…
The wheelchair-friendly lounge is open to all passengers.

‘Well-behaved children’ are welcome with an accompanying adult, according to the lounge FAQs. Infants aged under 2 are admitted for free, while kids aged 24months and over are subject to the standard entry fee.

Please phone ahead if bringing infants or you may not be admitted. Please note the lounge is designed as a ‘quiet, adult environment’ and no specific entertainment is provided for children.

Manchester Airport Terminal 2 Escape Lounge
Take your place in one of the two Escape Lounges in T2 and enjoy a stress-free start to your trip from this busy international airport. Ideal for both business and leisure travellers, there’s no better way to embark on your journey from Manchester Airport’s Terminal 2.

Why book: It’s the ideal solution for travellers looking to avoid the hordes and relax ahead of their flight. Take a seat in the Escape Lounge and leave the hustle and bustle of airport life at the door as you sit back and enjoy the complimentary facilities and fayre.

What’s on offer: From a complimentary continental breakfast to a brunch of freshly baked pies, pastries, salads, handmade sandwiches and sweet treats, there’s a wide selection of food on offer throughout the day. Guests can also sample beers, wines and spirits from the free bar, or relax with a selection of teas, coffees and fresh fruit juices.

Lounge features: Alongside a relaxed space and mouth-watering refreshments – guests are free to enjoy a whole host of additional complimentary facilities. Here’s the full list of what’s available.

Dress code: The Lounge dress code is smart/casual. Men’s shoulders must be covered at all times. Shorts must be tailored and of reasonable length. Sports attire is not accepted – football and rugby shirts must be covered. Matching clothing (such as for hen or stag parties), fancy dress, onesies, pyjamas, personalised items or any other items that may cause offence to other users are not permitted.

Directions: After Security, head through the Duty Free area and take the stairs opposite Gate 209 to find the lounge. Lift access is also available.

Important information: Please take note of the following…
The wheelchair-friendly lounge is open to all passengers.

‘Well-behaved children’ are welcome with an accompanying adult. Children aged under 2 are admitted for free, while those aged 24months and above are subject to the standard entry fee.

Please phone ahead if bringing infants or you may not be admitted. Please note the lounge is designed as a ‘quiet, adult environment’ and no specific entertainment is provided for children.

Please note, there are two Escape Lounges in Terminal 2, with locations allocated on the day depending on space available.

Manchester Airport Terminal 3 Escape Lounge
Travelling through airport terminals has been found to be more stressful than moving home – but not for those booking a seat in the Escape Lounge at Manchester Airport’s T3. Slip away from the crowds and enter this haven of calm while you wait to board.

Why book: Along with the stress-free environment away from the crowds, travellers entering the lounge will enjoy an array of complimentary refreshments and services to ensure the perfect start to their trip – be it business or pleasure.

Reserving you space online now will also ensure you save cash on door rates.

What’s on offer: From a complimentary continental breakfast to a brunch of freshly baked pies, pastries, salads, handmade sandwiches and sweet treats, there’s a wide selection of food on offer throughout the day. Guests can also sample beers, wines and spirits from the free bar, or relax with a selection of teas, coffees and fresh fruit juices.

Opening hours: Operational times may vary depending on seasonal demand.

Sunday – Friday: 4.15am – 8.30pm
Saturday: 4.15am – 8pm

Dress code: The Lounge dress code is smart/casual. Men’s shoulders must be covered at all times. Shorts must be tailored and of reasonable length. Sports attire is not accepted – football and rugby shirts must be covered. Matching clothing (such as for hen or stag parties), fancy dress, onesies, pyjamas, personalised items or any other items that may cause offence to other users are not permitted.

Directions: After Security, turn right and head towards the shops. Turn left, pass Dixons and take the lift or stairs on the left hand side to level 3. The Escape Lounge is located near the main Duty Free shops and adjacent to the BA Executive Lounge.

Important information: Please take note of the following…
The wheelchair-friendly lounge is open to all passengers.

Additionally, ‘well-behaved children’ welcome with an accompanying adult. Children aged under 2 are admitted for free, while those aged 24months and above are subject to the standard entry fee.

Please phone ahead if bringing infants or you may not be admitted. Please note the lounge is designed as a ‘quiet, adult environment’ and no specific entertainment is provided for children.

Birmingham AirportNo1 Lounge
Relax ahead of your flight in this inspirational lounge with its living herb wall and enticing bistro. Book now and take the strain out of travelling from Birmingham Airport.

Why book: Along with a relaxing environment away from the crowds, travellers choosing the No1 Lounge will enjoy a wide range of complimentary refreshments and services to help ensure the perfect start to their trip.

Booking your space now will also save cash, when compared with what you’ll pay on the day of travel.

What’s on offer: Designed exclusively for No1 Lounge customers, guests will enjoy complimentary refreshments from the self-service pantry table and freshly-prepared hot dishes from the seasonal menu. There’s also a complimentary bar stocked with wine, draught and bottled beers, and premium spirits. A wide selection of soft drinks and hot drinks are also available.

Lounge features: Along with the food and drink, here’s a full list of complimentary features offered by the No1 Lounge Birmingham Airport:

Belfast Airport Causeway Lounge
Relax and enjoy your time at Belfast Airport with a seat in the Causeway Lounge.

Why book: Located just off the main departure concourse, the newly refurbished Causeway Lounge offers unrivalled views across the main runway and the ideal space for both business and leisure travellers to relax ahead of their flight.

Booking online now will also ensure you get the best rates – and avoid paying the surcharge for purchasing entry on the day of travel.

What’s on offer: Along with dodging the crowds, booking your space in the Causeway Lounge will also bring full use of facilities including free Wi-Fi, power outlets for charging devices, computer stations and a play area for kids.

Additionally, guests will also enjoy complimentary access to the gourmet buffet with a wide range hot and cold dishes offered throughout the day.

Guests can also partake in a freshly ground coffee, speciality tea or soft drink – or even pour a drink of choice – from the complimentary bar area.

Lounge features: Here’s the full list of features that guests can expect:

Dress code: The Causeway Lounge states smart casual or business attire is required. Tailored shorts are permitted, however guests should refrain from wearing sportswear, or any items with slogans that may cause offence.

Directions: After passing through security, turn left after the Duty Free area, then follow signs for Gates 16 and 17. The lounge entrance is adjacent to these gates.

Important information: Children are permitted in the Causeway Lounge, with a special play area provided. Kids under the age of two are admitted free.

Disabled passengers are welcome to use the fully accessible Causeway Lounge.

Why book: Book your space online now and avoid the £4 surcharge you’ll pay for entry on the door.

What’s on offer: From a complimentary continental breakfast to a brunch of freshly baked pies, pastries, salads, handmade sandwiches and sweet treats, there’s a wide selection of food on offer throughout the day. Guests can also sample beers, wines and spirits from the free bar, or relax with a selection of teas, coffees and fresh fruit juices.

Lounge features: It’s not just free food and drink to tempt you in… here’s the full list of what’s on offer in the East Midlands Airport Escape Lounge:

Dress code: The Lounge dress code is smart/casual. Men’s shoulders must be covered at all times. Shorts must be tailored and of reasonable length. Sports attire is not accepted – football and rugby shirts must be covered. Matching clothing (such as for hen or stag parties), fancy dress, onesies, pyjamas, personalised items or any other items that may cause offence to other users are not permitted.

Directions: After passing through security, guest should head past the shopping area and find the Escape Lounge opposite Gate 17.

Important information: Please take note of the following…
The wheelchair-friendly lounge is open to all passengers.

The lounge states well-behaved children are welcome with an accompanying adult. Children aged under 2 are admitted for free, while those aged 24months and above are subject to the standard entry fee.

Please phone ahead if bringing infants or you may not be admitted. Please note the lounge is designed as a ‘quiet, adult environment’ and no specific entertainment is provided for children.

Edinburgh AirportNo1 Lounge
With its light, airy atmosphere, the No1 Lounge Edinburgh offers the perfect welcome to passengers looking for a relaxing start to their trip. Simply sit back and enjoy the complimentary refreshments and facilities as you wait to board.

Why book: Along with a relaxing environment away from the crowds, travellers choosing the No1 Lounge will enjoy a wide range of complimentary refreshments and services to help ensure the perfect start to their trip.

Booking your space now will also save cash – with online reservations avoiding a £6 and £2 surcharge for adult and child entry purchased on the day of travel.

What’s on offer: Designed exclusively for No1 Lounge customers, guests will enjoy complimentary refreshments from the self-service pantry table and freshly-prepared hot dishes from the seasonal menu. There’s also a complimentary bar stocked with wine, draught and bottled beers, and premium spirits. A wide selection of soft drinks and hot drinks are also available.

Lounge features: There’s more than just complimentary food and drink on offer, too. Here’s the full list of features that guests can expect:

Exeter Airport The Executive Lounge
Relax and enjoy stunning views across the runway as you wait to fly from this popular West Country airport.

Why book: Whether travelling on business or pleasure, all passengers are welcome to book a space in Exeter Airport’s Executive Lounge. Swap the hustle and bustle of busy terminal life for complimentary food and drinks, plus essential amenities such as unlimited Wi-Fi as you wait to board.

Lounge features: Here’s the full list of features that guests can expect:

Leeds Bradford Airport The Yorkshire Premier Lounge
Book your place in the Yorkshire Premier Lounge at Leeds Bradford Airport and enjoy a relaxing period of peace and calm before taking to the skies. It’s the perfect way to start any trip in style.

Why book: Add the VIP touch to your trip with a seat in this luxurious lounge that’s open to all passengers, regardless of airline or cabin class. Enjoy a tasty selection of food and drink, along with a host of facilities to help pass the time as you wait board.

Book online now to beat the surcharge for entry on the day of travel.

What’s on offer: Along with a tranquil haven away from the hustle and bustle of airport life, guests will enjoy a wide range of complimentary food, drink and exclusive facilities. From free hot and cold snacks to unlimited high-speed internet, the newly refreshed lounge has something for everyone.

Lounge features: Here’s the full list of features that guests can expect:

Stansted Airport Escape Lounge
Make the most of your trip, by starting it off with a visit to the Stansted Airport Escape Lounge. From complimentary food and drink to free Wi-Fi and somewhere to charge you devices, it has something for all everyone.

Why book: Along with a stress-free environment away from the crowds, guests will enjoy an array of complimentary refreshments and services to ensure the perfect start their trip – be it business or pleasure.

Reserve you space online now to avoid the £4 surcharge for payment on the day of travel.

What’s on offer: From a complimentary continental breakfast to a brunch of freshly baked pies, pastries, salads, handmade sandwiches and sweet treats, there’s a wide selection of food on offer throughout the day. Guests can also sample beers, wines and spirits from the free bar, or relax with a selection of teas, coffees and fresh fruit juices.

Lounge features: There’s more than a relaxed atmosphere and free food to impress… here’s the full list of what’s on offer in the Stansted Airport Escape Lounge:

Dress code: The Lounge dress code is smart/casual. Men’s shoulders must be covered at all times. Shorts must be tailored and of reasonable length. Sports attire is not accepted – football and rugby shirts must be covered. Matching clothing (such as for hen or stag parties), fancy dress, onesies, pyjamas, personalised items or any other items that may cause offence to other users are not permitted.

Directions: After passing through security, guests will find the lounge located between Coast to Coast and Pret a Manger.

Important information: Please take note of the following…
The wheelchair-friendly lounge is open to all passengers, with well-behaved children welcome with an accompanying adult. Children aged under 2 are admitted for free, while those aged 24months and above are subject to the standard entry fee.

Please phone ahead if bringing infants or you may not be admitted. Please note the lounge is designed as a ‘quiet, adult environment’ and no specific entertainment is provided for children.

So, can booking a lounge actually save me money with all the ‘freebies’?

Considering that most passengers will have around three hours to kill as they wait to board, it’s likely they’ll order a meal, wash it down with a drink or two before sitting back for some heavy online browsing to while away the time. We compared the (rough) costs of these items in Gatwick’s South Terminal with the entry price to its No1 Lounge. See how much the difference is between booking a space in the No1 Lounge and buying services and food in the wider departure area.

Are airport lounges any more expensive than remaining in the terminal – we found out

Any other ways to help save cash with lounges?

Funny you should ask… yes, there is! Book your lounge tickets in advance through our online booking system and you’ll dodge the surcharge operators apply for bookings made on the day of travel. For example, booking ahead for some No1 Lounges will save up to £7 per adult and £2 for kids.

How about children – can I take the kids in?

Lounges such as The Yorkshire Premier Lounge at Leeds Bradford Airport are perfect for adults and kids – as you can see

Many people assume that lounges are stuffy affairs where children on not heard or seen… but that’s not the case in the majority of facilities. In fact, most lounges welcome ‘well behaved’ kids with many offering dedicated games rooms, cinemas and play areas. However, Exeter Airport’s Executive Lounge won’t admit kids below 12 years old – so check before you travel.

How much for children?

Infants below two years old will usually gain free entry to all lounges. For those aged two and over, Escape Lounges will charge full price, whereas No1 Lounge offers concessions up to the age of 11.

Hold on – what about dress code?

Don’t panic! Gone are the days when you’ll need to dress in a lounge suit or cocktail dress to get past the door, modern-day lounges merely require a ‘smart-but-casual’ take on your attire. However, if you base your fashion choices on the cast of Geordie Shore hitting the town on a Friday night, you may need to prepare for rejection. Avoid showing too much skin – midriffs for example – sportswear and offensive slogans. Additionally, stag and hen do-type themed clothing is unlikely to be welcomed.

How about lounges when I am abroad?

Going international… you can also book lounges in the likes of Alicante and Malaga

Good point. You can also grab a little luxury as you wait to fly home by reserving your spot in lounges around the world. Simply click below and see what’s on offer for your destination.

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